The City’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities is offering free Learn to Swim classes for adults and children this summer at all nine of the department’s public swimming pools. The classes are sanctioned by the American Red Cross, and all of the department’s instructors are American Red Cross Certified Water Safety Instructors.

“In a river city like Richmond, it’s important for every child to learn to swim,” said Dr. Norman C. Merrifield, director of the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities. “The river is such an integral part of our city, and it attracts so many people, that we believe knowing how to swim and understanding water safety is critical to the city’s population.

“At some point, it’s likely that you or your child will be attracted to the river and visit our James River Park. When you do, we want you to be knowledgeable and to know how to swim,” he said.

The free classes are designed for non-swimmers and will focus on an introduction to water skills, learning the fundamentals, and water safety. Each class will meet four times.

The next round of classes for youth ages 5 through 12 and will begin on July 22. Morning and evening sessions are available. Another round for kids age 5 through 12 will begin on August 12.

For non-swimmers 13 and older, classes will begin on August 9 and will be held in the evenings.

Please register in advance by calling or visiting the pool of your choice. The department’s fun and friendly swim instructors are waiting for you!